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Local Swimmers McHugh And Smith Sign National Letters Of Intent

11/14/2013 12:00:00 AM

By Nick Freimuth

It was a historic night for the Sturgeon Bay swim program last night. Two Sturgeon Bay seniors signed national letters of intent. The YMCA Doorphins Program was loud and proud for the ceremony held on the swim deck inside the Peterson Aquatic Center.

Conner McHugh and Arica Smith each admitted to getting a little emotional over the outpouring of support. A typical letter signing includes 20 to 30 family members, friends and coaches. There was nearly 200 people in attendance last night to celebrate two of the most decorated swimmers in the history of Sturgeon Bay swimming.

Conner confirmed his commitment to the University of Minnesota by signing on the dotted line last night. He will become a Golden Gopher in the summer and received a full scholarship. Only 9.9 scholarships are offered to the entire program which includes over 25 swimmers. Many programs try to split each scholarship up as many ways as possible to lure in the maximum number of young student athletes. For the university to offer Conner a full ride is extremely rare.

Arica will also be on scholarship when she packs her bags for the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. Arica has taken a much different approach to swimming in high school. Smith swims for the Doorphins and her high school team. McHugh only swims with the Doorphins.

To listen to full length interviews with each of the scholar student athletes click on the audio links below.